Teens Afloat program provides low-cost life vests

Published online: Feb 29, 2012News

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CHICAGO - The BoatUS Foundation's Teens Afloat program is accepting applications from interested non-profit groups that offer on-the-water education for teens to receive discounted lifejackets through the program.

The vest-style life jackets will be available for $5 to non-profit summer camps, schools or any local non-profit organization that provides on-the-water education programs for teens. Groups interested in getting life jackets through the program can apply using the online application on http://www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/TeensAfloat through the March 31 deadline.

Made possible through a donation from the National Marine Bankers Association, the goal of the program is to provide an affordable way to keep teens safe while they participate in educational programs on local waters, the NMBA said in a release.

"We've received many requests over the years from groups providing these kinds of on-the-water educational programs to teens that desperately need life jackets," BoatUS Foundation Program Manager Alanna Keating said in a statement. "These programs are great ways to give teens a chance to experience being on the water and at the same time educate them on the importance of life jacket wear."

After the applications are received, the foundation will choose the applicants that best match the guidelines and post them on the foundation's website and Facebook page for the public to vote on in April.

"We also hope that involving the public with voting helps to promote these programs," Keating said in a statement.

The NMBA is encouraging the public to share this offer with local non-profits they think may fit the parameters of the program.